DGCA Issues a Warning to the Airline After it Exceeded the 10-Hour Flight Time Limit

India’s aviation regulator has issued a warning to its flagship airline after it allegedly exceeded the 10-hour pilot flight time limit at least twice. The show-cause was sent in June, and it seems Air India’s explanation didn’t do the trick.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said the violations occurred on Bengaluru–London services AI133 on May 16 and 17, 2025, and were uncovered during a spot check.

According to DGCA regulations, pilots cannot exceed 10 hours of flight time in a duty period under the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR). Air India, however, attributed the overrun to a “different interpretation” of a special exemption granted during Pakistan’s airspace closure, which required rerouting of flights. The airline said once the correct interpretation was clarified, scheduling practices were adjusted, and it remains fully compliant with the rules.

The DGCA was not convinced. A show-cause notice was sent to Air India on June 20, asking for an explanation. After reviewing the airline’s reply, regulators found the response “unsatisfactory” and said the explanation failed to adequately address the regulatory lapses. In an August 11 letter, the DGCA issued a formal warning to CEO Campbell Wilson, stating that he must exercise “utmost diligence and responsibility” in ensuring compliance.

While Air India has corrected the scheduling issue, the warning highlights the regulator’s expectation that compliance with CARs is absolute. The DGCA has left the door open to stricter enforcement if further breaches occur, a reminder that even national carriers are not exempt from the fine print of flight duty regulations.

FMI: www.airindia.com